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Today’s Workout: Jumping lunge combines cardio and leg strengthening

Marlo Alleva demonstrates jumping lunges. [ERNST PETERS/THE LEDGER]

Marlo Alleva More Content Now

Posted: Apr. 11, 2019 1:00 pm

I am beginning to think that spring is my favorite season of the year. The sun is warming up, yet the gentle breeze is keeping the temperature just right.So why not take our fitness outside? The mixture of fresh air and exercise is hard to turn down.Our move today is jumping lunges. This exercise will work the lower body with the lunge but also boost our cardio at the same time.Begin this move by standing tall, holding your chest high, tucking your arms up in front of your torso, and engaging your core.With a small hop, extend one leg back and the other slightly in front of your body. Aim for a lunging motion, bending in the front knee and lowering your back knee toward the ground. As quickly as you get into your lowest point, spring back up and switch legs, immediately going into your lunge.Continue alternating these lunges for a desired amount of time or a certain amount on each leg. If your balance is compromised, you do not need to jump as much. If you need more resistance, hold a hand weight in each hand, tucked into chest and torso area.This move is great on its own, used as a warmup or even in a lower body workout. It will definitely be a go-to when you decide to combine your fitness with fresh air.

-- Marlo Alleva, an instructor at Gold’s Gym and group fitness coordinator at Fontaine-Gills YMCA, in Lakeland, Florida,can be reached at faluvzpa@msn.com